Pakistan to Participate in International Peace Force for Palestine, Says Deputy PM Ishaq Dar

Islamabad – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced that Pakistan will participate in an international peacekeeping force to be deployed in Palestine as part of a comprehensive peace plan. He described Pakistan’s involvement as a matter of national pride and emphasized that the composition of Pakistan’s contingent will be decided by the country’s leadership.

Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Dar revealed that eight countries had collaborated closely to draft an agreement aimed at securing lasting peace in Gaza. He noted that the majority of personnel in the proposed peacekeeping force would be Palestinians themselves. Additionally, Palestinians will have representation in the technocratic government being formed for the region. Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair is expected to serve as the global peace envoy.

Indonesia has pledged to contribute 26,000 personnel to the peacekeeping force, while Pakistan’s contribution is still under consideration by its leadership. Dar highlighted that the joint statement issued by the eight Muslim countries replaced an earlier 20-point declaration by former US President Donald Trump, with a key amendment being the replacement of a US-led peacekeeping force by an independent international force to ensure peace in Gaza.

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Dar stressed the unanimous agreement among the Muslim countries that the West Bank and Gaza must remain united regardless of Israel’s position. While the United States was involved due to its influence, no direct negotiations were held with Israel; instead, the group chose to engage with the party holding actual power on the ground.

He further mentioned that the Saudi Foreign Minister maintained regular communication throughout the process. The eight nations remain committed to resolving the Palestinian issue based on pre-1967 borders. Although Hamas has not publicly commented on the agreement, Palestinian authorities have responded positively, and five Arab nations have assured that Hamas would not oppose the initiative.

Dar confirmed that all eight countries, in coordination with the US, are working toward securing a ceasefire in Gaza. The Palestinian issue was also discussed with President Trump, with constructive dialogue focused on an immediate ceasefire and the delivery of humanitarian aid.

He concluded by criticizing those opposing the peace initiative, questioning if they preferred ongoing violence. Dar urged all parties to refrain from politicizing the matter, stressing the urgent need to end the suffering of innocent Palestinians in Gaza.